West Coast Ports Secure Sixyear Labor Deal Averting Disruption

West Coast Ports Secure Sixyear Labor Deal Averting Disruption

The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) reached an agreement on a new six-year contract, ending 13 months of negotiations. The agreement covers key aspects such as wages, benefits, and job security, which is significant for stabilizing US West Coast port operations, alleviating global supply chain pressures, and promoting economic growth. Despite challenges related to automation and geopolitics, the contract's conclusion lays a foundation for future development.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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UPS Expands Airconditioned Fleet After Teamsters Deal

UPS Expands Airconditioned Fleet After Teamsters Deal

UPS is accelerating its agreement with the Teamsters union to equip vehicles with air conditioning. The plan includes retrofitting 5,000 existing vehicles with AC and testing cargo area cooling solutions. This initiative aims to improve working conditions for employees and enhance operational efficiency. Concurrently, UPS is restructuring its network and adjusting its approach to Amazon business to optimize profitability. These changes reflect UPS's commitment to both employee well-being and long-term financial health.

01/07/2026 Logistics
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Labor Dispute Slows Port Efficiency in Los Angeles Long Beach

Labor Dispute Slows Port Efficiency in Los Angeles Long Beach

Labor disputes have resurfaced at the Ports of Los Angeles/Long Beach, with potential operational slowdowns by the union. The PMA accuses the ILWU of hindering operations, potentially impacting the supply chain. Businesses are advised to closely monitor the situation, proactively plan, diversify risks, and optimize their supply chains to mitigate potential losses. This includes exploring alternative ports and transportation methods to reduce reliance on the affected region and ensure business continuity.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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West Coast Ports Resume Labor Talks to Prevent Congestion

West Coast Ports Resume Labor Talks to Prevent Congestion

The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) are scheduled to resume negotiations to proactively address contract extensions and prevent future freight congestion at West Coast ports. These talks are critical to global trade stability. Key negotiation points are expected to include wages and benefits, automation, job security, and contract duration. The outcome will directly impact shippers' supply chain efficiency and costs, making a timely agreement essential to avoid disruptions.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Namibia Launches Trade Facilitation Program for Authorized Operators

Namibia Launches Trade Facilitation Program for Authorized Operators

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supported Namibia in completing a capacity assessment for its Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program. The aim is to assist Namibia in launching an AEO pilot project and its full implementation by 2018 through work plans in key areas such as risk management, post-clearance audit, legal reform, and IT upgrades. Ultimately, this initiative seeks to promote trade facilitation and economic development within the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) region.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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China's Export Dilemma: Buyout vs. Agency Trade Models Compared

China's Export Dilemma: Buyout vs. Agency Trade Models Compared

The difference between buying export and agent export lies in the former referring to exports conducted through an entity with export rights when lacking such rights, while the latter involves an authorized exporter acting as an agent to ensure foreign exchange repatriation. Buying export does not enjoy tax rebates, whereas agent export can apply for them. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for foreign trade operations.

07/28/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Guangdong Ecommerce Firm Cuts Jobs As Profits Fall

Guangdong Ecommerce Firm Cuts Jobs As Profits Fall

A major cross-border e-commerce seller in Guangdong is implementing layoffs and salary reductions due to operating losses, sparking employee dissatisfaction and industry attention. The company's strategic adjustments, branch turmoil, and employee rights protection efforts reflect the intensified competition and business difficulties within the cross-border e-commerce sector. Companies should focus on refined operations, enhance competitiveness, pay attention to employee rights, and achieve sustainable development.

12/30/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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UPS Faces Historic Strike As 330000 Workers Threaten Walkout

UPS Faces Historic Strike As 330000 Workers Threaten Walkout

Negotiations between UPS and the Teamsters union have broken down, potentially leading to a strike by 330,000 employees, which could become the largest work stoppage in US history. A strike would severely disrupt the supply chain, impacting online shopping for consumers and business operations. It is crucial for both parties to reach an agreement quickly to avoid significant economic losses. The potential disruption highlights the fragility of current supply chains and the importance of successful labor negotiations.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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UPS Strike Threatens Holiday Supply Chains Retailers Warn

UPS Strike Threatens Holiday Supply Chains Retailers Warn

Negotiations between UPS and the Teamsters union have stalled, prompting the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) to warn of significant supply chain disruptions, particularly ahead of the back-to-school and holiday shopping seasons. This article analyzes the potential impact of a UPS strike on retailers and consumers. It also explores long-term strategies for enhancing supply chain resilience and mitigating future risks, suggesting proactive measures businesses can take to navigate potential disruptions and ensure continued operations.

11/03/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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EU Boosts Cameroons Customs Classification Skills

EU Boosts Cameroons Customs Classification Skills

The World Customs Organization is assisting Cameroon in implementing its customs modernization program, with funding from the European Union, focusing on enhancing tariff classification capabilities. Through training workshops held in Douala, Cameroonian customs officials learned about the HS coding system, case studies, and trade facilitation agreements. This initiative aims to improve the accuracy of commodity classification, promote regional integration, and foster trade development. The program emphasizes practical application and knowledge transfer to ensure sustainable improvements in customs procedures.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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